What defines an important game? It could be standings, televised coverage, rivalries, or other storylines that come into play when two teams square off. Luckily, the Big Ten has all of the above in store for the 2023 season.
The Big Ten East is up for grabs between Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State, who is looking to finally have the breakthrough year that they yearn for. Maryland is flying a bit under the radar but could make some noise.
In the Big Ten West, you’ve got Iowa and Wisconsin preparing for a season-long sprint to the West title. Minnesota is looking to stay afloat while the Fighting Illini want to prove they are for real.
There are plenty of coaching changes as well. Nebraska welcomes in Matt Rhule. Wisconsin has Luke Fickell at the helm. Purdue took Ryan Walters from Illinois. Northwestern has an interim staff in place. Add in the quarterback and transfer changes, the Big Ten is a brand new league this year.
And each year, there are games that every team circles on their schedule for one reason or another. Here are those games. Here is every Big Ten team’s most important game in 2023.